V. Intent

Failure to recognize that one’s behavior is harassing or discriminatory to an individual or group of individuals is not an acceptable defense to discrimination, harassment (including sexual misconduct, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking) and/or retaliation. Differences in perception on the part of individuals involved in complaints of discrimination, harassment (including sexual misconduct, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking) or retaliation will be resolved based on the “reasonable person” standard in evaluating offensive behavior. Accordingly, all members of the University community should consider how a reasonable person may view their behavior, notwithstanding their intent.